Pastor Charles Zimmerman Obituary (1926 - 2025)

Charles Lee Zimmerman, age 98, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on January 4, 2025, in Harlan, IN. He was born on November 28, 1926, at the home of his parents, Everett and Rosa (Mosier) Zimmerman. He grew up on their farm in Sterling, Kansas, where he graduated from high school in 1944. Charles married Elda (Birkey), from Groveland, IL, and together, they began dairying on the family farm. In his mid-twenties, Charles committed his life to following and serving the Lord after experiencing a farm accident. He studied at Moody Bible Institute, and upon graduation, began pastoring Salem church in Gridley, IL. Desiring further theological training, he graduated from Wheaton College, then Grace Theological Seminary. He was called to serve as pastor at Archbold Evangelical Church in 1964, and faithfully ministered there for 28 years until retiring in 1992. He and his wife, Elda, were engaged in various volunteer ministries during their retirement years. After his wife's death in 2016, Charles moved to Harlan, IN, where he lived with his daughter and son-in-law. He was also preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Marieta Diaz; and great-grandson, John Walberg. He is survived by 4 children, Rebecca (Gary) Gates, David (Beth) Zimmerman, Marlene (Todd) Habegger, and Susan (Hal) Lehman. Also surviving are 13 grandchildren, and 43 great-grandchildren. His example of love for his wife, his family, and the gospel of Jesus Christ, along with his humble integrity, are an inheritance of inestimable value. Visitation for Charles will take place on Thursday, January 9, 2025, from 3pm to 6pm at the Archbold Evangelical Church. A celebration of life will take place on Friday, January 10, 2025, at the Grisier Funeral Home of Archbold, at 11am. Burial will be private at the Pettisville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Archbold Evangelical Church or the charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.grisierfh.com. The Grisier Funeral Home of Archbold is honored to serve the Zimmerman family.